The Dorsey Leadership Academy is specifically tailored to provide dedicated support to College of Education and Human Development students, with the aim of nurturing inclusivity and equity within learning environments and professional fields.

Goals

• To support the development of professionals in education and human development who contribute to their fields in meaningful ways.
• To help foster more inclusive and equitable learning environments and professional fields.
• To develop distinguished leaders with expertise and experience in research, leadership, and multicultural competence.
• To provide guidance to students who may experience less access to certain aspects of college and the college experience.

Benefits

• Supportive network of peers across degrees, levels and emphasis areas
• Mentorship from college faculty and staff
• Collaboration with community partners
• Guidance to navigate new experiences
• Opportunities for academic enrichment

When I got to Mizzou, I wanted a community I could connect with. Dorsey has allowed me to network with other professionals in the college, as well as other future professionals of color. I am grateful for the connections I have built and the lifelong memories I have made.

Tyra Gipson, Secondary Chemistry Education major

Scholarships

Members of Dorsey Leadership Academy are invited to apply for an annual scholarship award package of up to $8,000 (renewable for an additional three years when requirements are met). Five recipients are selected among the applicants for each incoming cohort.

Eligibility Minimum Qualifications (in addition to admission to the University of Missouri):

• Student pursuing a Bachelor of Educational Studies, Bachelor of Science in Education, or Bachelor of Science in Human Development & Family Science
• U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Enrollment at MU the first semester after high school graduation
• Demonstrates through relevant experiences or activities an interest in promoting an inclusive learning environment
• Completion of FAFSA, MU Annual Scholarship Application, and Dorsey Scholarship Application

As Associate Professor of Higher Education, Dr. Carolyn Ann Dorsey was the first African-American faculty member in the College of Education at the University of Missouri.

Dr. Dorsey authored several notable works including “The African American Educational Experience” from the book, The African American Experience: An Historiographical and Bibliographical Guide, by Arvarh E. Strickland and Robert E. Weems Jr.